Farage’s millionaire donors find ways to save money on tax

Ukip candidate for the Heywood and Middleton by-election John Bickley campaining with party leader Nigel FarageGetty Images

Ukip’s new multimillionaire donor was reeled in by a wealthy financier based in the Isle of Man for tax purposes, The Times can reveal.

Arron Banks, who this week pledged to give £1 million to Ukip, was introduced to Nigel Farage by the investor Jim Mellon. One of the country’s richest men, Mr Mellon has been described as Britain’s answer to Warren Buffett.

He has grown friendly with the Ukip leader in recent years, hosting fundraising events on his behalf and inviting him to private gatherings with wealthy City friends.

About four weeks ago, he introduced Mr Farage to Mr Banks, 48, with whom Mr Mellon has shared business interests. The pledge by Mr Banks, an insurance tycoon, which is the biggest ever one-off promise…

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